WATCH: Kenny Chesney Offers Emotional Tribute to Ethel Kennedy During Celebration of Life

As people near and far gathered in Washington, D.C. to remember the life of Ethel Kennedy, the widow of U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy who was assassinated in 1968, one of country music's finest was on hand to celebrate the public servant and human right activist.

Kenny Chesney, who had been a friend to Kennedy since being introduced in 2017 by her daughter Rory, was among the figures who took the podium to honor the late public figure on Wednesday (October 16).

"The moment I walked into Ethel’s home she and I shared a soulful bond and I have so much gratitude for that friendship," Chesney shared from the front of the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle. "Every time I was around [her], she made me feel great because she felt like sunshine."

A fitting segue, the beloved country star offered a solo, a capella performance of 'You Are My Sunshine.'

For once not donning his signature cowboy hat, and surrounded by a sea of friends, family, public figures and the like, his booming vocals reverberated off of the cathedral walls, providing a chilling tribute to the late Ethel Kennedy.

Over the years, Chesney made several visits to visit the Kennedy's compound in Hyannis Port. As he explained to Town & Country, he had an immediate connection to Ethel that would last for many years.

"I remember walking into the house, and it's strange because you see all those pictures and there's all that history everywhere you look. But then you meet Ethel and all that melts away, because she is so genuine and loving and real," Chesney told the outlet. "You have those people in your life, when you meet them for the first time—be it the universe or some kind of greater spirit—where it's like you'd known them the person for a very long time. It was very much like I'd known Ethel for a very long time and we were just instantly, deeply connected."

He continued on: "When you think about Ethel, she was so strong and meant so much to this country, to people who are seeking to make the world a better place. She was very strong, very witty. We were close, obviously, and I loved her very much. It was a very sweet friendship, which I cherish. We both loved the ocean, sailing, and family. She loved music, too, so we had a lot in common—and she really loved the things she loved."

As time went on, Chesney attended various Thanksgiving and birthday celebrations, as well as other family events.

Chesney's performance during "A Celebration of Life for Mrs. Robert F. Kennedy” came alongside appearances from artists Sting and Stevie Wonder, as well as three presidents – Joe Biden, Barack Obama and Bill Clinton – all of whom gave eulogies for Kennedy.

Ethel Kennedy passed away on October 10, 2024, at the age of 96 after suffering from a stroke.

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